Demand Accountability and Justice for Juveniles at Adair Juvenile Detention Center
Angela Capps ( Assistant Attorney),Adair Circuit Court, DJJ,
Demand ACYDC Charge as Youths
I want to bring attention to a critical issue concerning the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and Adair County Youth Development Center (ACYDC), where serious allegations of abuse and a lack of accountability have surfaced following the events of November 12, 2022.
ACYDC, designed for the detention of medium to maximum level offenders, is unfortunately being misused to house youth with lower-level offenses or those yet to be convicted. Disturbing reports of neglect, psychological, and physical abuse have emerged, revealing instances of children being subjected to inhumane conditions—kept in cells with ankle-deep water, deprived of basic necessities like baths and meals, and confined for nearly 24 hours daily, violating their civil and constitutional rights.
On November 12, 2022, DJJ attributed a riot to the children at ACYDC, but by November 16, 2022, former staff members courageously spoke out about witnessing abuse at the facility. Parents, caregivers, and community members joined the outcry on November 23, 2022. Shockingly, by March 2023, the state had charged 15 juveniles with serious offenses, seeking to try them as adults.
This decision by DJJ to try these juveniles as adults is deeply concerning, as it impedes their ability to learn, grow, and reintegrate into society. Most of these children have not been convicted of the charges they face, and the state seems intent on pushing a narrative that distorts the reality of their circumstances.
As a mother who has personally witnessed the disturbing footage of the riots, it is evident that the information presented to the public is an attempt to cover up the true nature of events. I am reaching out for help for my son and urging you to sign this petition to demand that these children have a fair chance and are tried in juvenile court.
I am also requesting that you call the Adair County Attorney's office, specifically asking for Assistant County Attorney Angela Capps, and join me in demanding that these children remain in juvenile court.
Together, let us advocate for accountability, justice, and a future for these young individuals who deserve proper treatment and guidance.
Juanisha Saunders is a previously incarcerated and directly impacted mother who is advocating for justice for her son. After finding out that he had gotten arrested, Nisha found out that there was little time to find out why and where he was. Once she found out he was at Adair, she began hearing stories about the conditions of ACYDC. Nisha’s son made the disturbing about the “riot” call after 2 weeks of lockdown- naming that they were under staffed.
Find out more https://linktr.ee/helpinghandsoflovel.l.c
Petition by
Sponsored by
To:
Angela Capps ( Assistant Attorney),Adair Circuit Court, DJJ,
From:
[Your Name]
I am writing to you as a concerned citizen who has been affected by the events surrounding Adair County Youth Development Center (ACYDC).
Recent revelations about the conditions at ACYDC and the treatment of juveniles housed there have deeply troubled me. The allegations of abuse and the decision to charge these young individuals as adults raise serious concerns about justice, accountability, and the well-being of the children involved.
As a signatory to the petition circulating within our community, I urge you to consider the following requests:
Review and Reassess the Charging Decision:
We request a thorough review and reassessment of the decision to charge the juveniles from ACYDC as adults. Many of these children have not been convicted, and treating them as adults may hinder their chances for rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.
Ensure Fair and Just Proceedings in Juvenile Court:
It is our fervent desire that these juveniles receive fair and just treatment in the juvenile court system. We believe that a more compassionate and rehabilitative approach is essential for their growth and development.
Open an Investigation into Allegations of Abuse:
The allegations of neglect, psychological, and physical abuse at ACYDC are deeply troubling. We implore you to initiate a thorough and impartial investigation into these allegations to hold accountable those responsible for any misconduct.
Transparency and Accountability:
We seek transparency and accountability in the proceedings related to ACYDC. Keeping the community informed about the steps being taken to address these issues is crucial in rebuilding trust.
I understand the complexities involved in your role, and I appreciate your commitment to justice. By taking these actions, we believe that you can contribute significantly to ensuring a fair and compassionate resolution for the juveniles affected by the events at ACYDC.
Your prompt attention to these matters is greatly appreciated, and I am hopeful that, together, we can work towards a more just and compassionate outcome for these young individuals.
Thank you for your time and consideration.